Parents. It's always a nice gesture to give your parents a gift on the wedding day to thank them for their help with the wedding. The gift does not have to be expensive and can be something as simple as a personalized handkerchief or a framed engagement photo.
A memory box including photos, favorite items, toys, awards, artwork, certificates, and memorabilia of the groom from his baby days to date is a gift that the bride will cherish. Not to mention it's a treasure box for future grandchildren to get to know dad when he was a kid too.
You certainly do not have to give your mother-in-law a gift, but it is definitely a welcome and thoughtful gesture.
She can spend a little time with both the bride and groom.
If that's the case, she may want to start her morning with the bride and her group, then leave once she has her hair and makeup done. After, she can head to the groom's getting-ready area to help him prepare for his walk down the aisle.
Optional: Mother of the Groom
As a compromise, you might ask your mom get ready nearby and join you toward the end of the getting-ready festivities so that she can see you in your final look (and provide help if needed) before you head to the ceremony.
Although there is no need to give a gift, there is also nothing wrong with doing so if you choose. Ask your daughter for some guidance as to allergies, preferences, etc., and make it something small so that you don't make her feel uncomfortable. Simply being included is probably gift enough.
During your wedding ceremony, read a touching poem or say some words from the heart dedicated to your parents. To honor both sets of parents, have the bride read to the groom's parents and vice versa. Not only will it have the parents in appreciative tears, but also signifies the unification of the two families as one.
The wedding protocol for the mother of the groom during guest-list planning is to politely ask how many guests she's permitted to invite. According to Swann, it's important that the mother of the groom is allowed a voice in the wedding guest list discussion because a wedding is about two families coming together.
Unlike the past days where the groom's parents' responsibilities were limited to hosting rehearsal dinner and walking the groom down the aisle, today, their contributions are significant. A recent survey by WeddingWire indicates that the groom's parents cover up to 24% of the wedding plans.
Traditionally, he walks down the aisle solo but some grooms prefer walking down the aisle escorted by both parents. Other grooms prefer a more subtle approach by entering the ceremony from the side of the venue (following the officiant and followed by the groomsmen) to take his place at the altar.
For a Non-Denominational or Secular Wedding
The groom might opt to escort his mother down the aisle and to her seat in the front row, followed closely behind by the groom's father. This gives the groom an opportunity to give his parents a hug before taking his place at the altar.
Traditionally, the groom's mother and his father (usually) host the rehearsal dinner the night before the wedding. Planning the rehearsal dinner is one of the most important tasks for the mother of the groom to take on.
Be polite: If you can't be overtly nice, then at least be polite. Don't overrule what she has to say. Also, don't get into an argument or debate with her during your first meeting. Call her often: To make sure that you communicate well with your mom-in-law call her at frequent intervals.
The Best Colors for a Mother of the Groom
"Wear a flattering color that compliments the color palette of the wedding," advises Valiente. For example, jewel tones and earthy hues are perfect for fall nuptials, while formal gowns in navy or silver would be ideal for black-tie weddings.
While this speech has traditionally been given at rehearsal dinners, it's not unusual for the mother of the groom to speak at the wedding reception, either.
An easy rule of thumb is to stay within the average range of $75 to $200, but you can adjust the exact amount based on your personal finances, as well as your relationship with the couple.
The groom's parents precede the bride's mother during the processional. Here's a rundown: After the ushers have seated all of the guests, the grandparents start up the aisle, followed by the groom's parents. Then the bride's mother takes her turn. She is the last to be seated before the bridal party procession begins.
Mother of the Groom with the Father of the Groom
Traditionally speaking, the mother of the groom will walk down the aisle with the father of the groom. They will take their seats on the right-hand side in the front-row.
Who Pays for the Mother-of-the-Bride and Groom's Beauty Team? As with most beauty questions, there is no hard-and-fast rule. Some brides may offer to cover hair and makeup services in order to thank the wedding party for being a part of their special day.